His Honour Chief Justice Janmai Jay Udit was officially welcomed as the head of the judiciary in a special sitting of the Nauru Court, this morning, witnessed by His Excellency President David Adeang, Cabinet ministers and members of the diplomatic corps. In his address CJ Udit also declared open the judiciary calendar for 2026.
Sworn in on 14 January, CJ Udit fills a five-year absence of a substantive chief justice for Nauru.
Justice Kiniviliame Keteca introduced the new CJ highlighting his extensive work and contribution to Nauru’s justice system, noting his “vast experience will augur well in further development of the Nauru judiciary and the jurisprudence in this jurisdiction”.
CJ Udit underscored the role of his office to uphold the integrity of the courts and of legal practitioners to do right by all manner of people according to law without fear or favour.
He reiterated the urgency of resolving and expediting cases, and to do justice to those who have entrusted their cases to the judiciary.
In the interest of justice, he advised against excessive informal interactions of friendliness between a judge and legal practitioners.
“It must be remembered that the court is an institution of respect and dignity therefore the conduct of each and every one of these institutions must be of mutual respect.”
His Honour also encouraged wider use of official government news mediums to better inform the people of Nauru of the summaries of court judgements.
The Acting Secretary for Justice, Ravuanimasei Tagivakatini and President of the Nauru Law Society, Barina Duburiya expressed anticipation of updating archaic legislation such as the civil procedure rules and land laws.